Sentara Health unveils expanded space for medical students and residents
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Recognizing the needs of medical students and residents, Sentara Norfolk General Hospital recently introduced a newly renovated wing aimed at improving their educational experience. The updated lounge and study space, which includes 16 rooms and a kitchen, was created in response to student feedback requesting more areas to work, study, and recharge.
The new space was officially introduced during a ribbon-cutting ceremony on January 17, attended by students, faculty, and staff. The event highlighted the importance of providing an environment where learners can thrive as they balance rigorous academic and clinical demands.
"Medical education is vital to the entire team at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital," said Mike Hooper, MD, vice president & chief academic officer for Sentara Health. "We understand that learning is critically important for the healthcare industry, our patients, and our community. We wanted to provide an appropriate space for students and residents to learn and work, so we have doubled the amount of space dedicated to training programs and medical students."
The expanded wing includes dedicated areas where students and residents can work on computers, collaborate with peers, and make the most of their time in the hospital. A new kitchen offers a welcoming space for breaks and downtime, ensuring learners have the resources they need to succeed.
"Our students told us they wanted more space in the hospital system to do their work and we can’t thank Sentara enough for making that possible," said Brooke Hooper, assistant vice dean for clinical education at Macon & Joan Brock Virginia Health Sciences Eastern Virginia Medical School at Old Dominion University. "We know our students and residents provide exceptional care to our patients, and we hope this space helps them continue adding value to the team."